Panzer III, Ausf J

[Jim Fowler]

Well, Jordan's post on making an Ausf N got me thinking....since the P3 is not going to actually be an exact Ausf L, I have an opportunity...

I am thinking about making an "Up-Gunned" Ausf J. This variant would be right at home in N. Africa/Tunisian, and offer me a good foe for my Stuat.

I got my Achtung Panzer #2 book out and I am sorting through the needed changes and add-ons now - making a list - checking it twice......

So, what is everyone else thinking about?

I am now sort of curious as to what accessories/supplemental parts will come about for sale in support of our Panzer III?

I will post a mod list here for other to look at - get feedback and corrections on - it helps to have other check my work before I make a mistake(GRIN!)

[Jim Fowler]

I just had an afterthought.....

maybe I could modify the main gun to use an interchangable barrel?

Then I could have both the long and short barrel......my choice for the occasion.

[Jim Fowler]

My initial look at the Ausf J conversion is at the mods needed for the turret - here is what i have thus far:

• add rear pistol port & plugs
• correct rear stowage bin and mountingf
• addition of wooden strips on stowage bin for antennae
• inset fastener detail on top roof plate
• add weld seams
• add roof top grab bars above side hatches
• add rain gutter above side hatches
• add side hatch stoppers
• add side lift hooks
• change commander's hatch to split style
• remove the extra mantlet armor
• add side vision ports to the turret

Anyone see something I missed?

Next, I have to investigate what is needed for the lower chassis and hull.

[David Lee]

1. Smoke dischargers
2. Commanders's sighting vane
3. Anti-aircraft mount
4. Cone head bolts
5. Castle nuts
6. Mantlet MG cover

Just at the moment Maybe more to come.

Anyone see something I missed?

[Jim Fowler]

[quote="David Lee"]1. Smoke dischargers

Just at the moment :wink: Maybe more to come.
[/quote]


David, Smoke Dischargers on a J? .....KEWL!

I like it! give me more......

[David Lee]

1. Smoke dischargers

Just at the moment Maybe more to come.

David, Smoke Dischargers on a J? .....KEWL!

I like it! give me more......

Yeah, I like it too.

Just received a reference book that I bought from HobbyJapan. The name of the book.

ÄFV SUPER DETAL PHOTO BOOK VOL.6
Pz.Kpfw.III Ausf. J/L
by ModelArt

Includes english and japanese text, with photos of interiors. The photos of exterior and interiors are categorized by sections of the tank.

Well, as we go along during our build, I am sure there will be more.

[Dave Dibb (Armorpax)]

• add side hatch stoppers
• add side lift hooks

Hi Jim,

These are already included in the kit if you are referring to the catch that locks the front turret doors in the open position and the hook each side at the front of the turret.

Cheers

Dave

[Jim Fowler]

[quote="Dave Dibb (Armorpax)"]

Hi Jim,

These are already included in the kit if you are referring to the catch that locks the front turret doors in the open position and the hook each side at the front of the turret.

Cheers

Dave[/quote]


Thanks Dave!

Now, what goodies are the folks at Armorpax planning for my Panzer III? I think a fair number of use will be looking for:

Rear Turret Pistal Ports
Split Commander's Hatch
Side Vision Port Covers

(I know, I'm shameless - GRIN!)